There’s nothing quite as frightening or frustrating as your car suddenly cutting off while you’re driving. Not only is this situation dangerous, it can also be overwhelming and stressful. If your car keeps turning off, there could be a number of different underlying causes. Read on to find out more about this and what you can do to fix it.
Your Alternator Needs Attention
The alternator is an important part of your car, and it runs off the battery. If something is amiss with this component, your car will likely come to a complete stop since it’s no longer working in conjunction with the battery to power your vehicle. Have your mechanic check the alternator and determine whether or not it needs to be replaced. Unfortunately, this is an expensive fix but it’s something that should be remedied as soon as possible.
A Malfunctioning Ignition Switch
Over time, your ignition switch can wear down. When this happens, there’s typically a loss of power to the engine, causing it to suddenly turn off. Sometimes it can happen when you run over a pothole or drive over rough roads. The vibration can contribute to a loss of power, causing your engine to completely die. Have a closer look at the ignition switch to ensure that it’s in good working condition.
Other Common Causes
It may seem obvious, but you could just be out of gas. If your gas gauge is broken, you won’t be able to tell when you’re running low on fuel so make sure it’s working correctly. Another common cause can be an issue with your fuel pump. If it’s clogged or damaged, your vehicle isn’t getting enough fuel to run. Sensors are another common culprit. If a sensor is malfunctioning, it won’t be able to communicate with the computer components in your car, causing it to shut off suddenly.
What to do if You Stall
If you’re driving and your engine suddenly cuts off, follow these tips to stay safe and get help:
- Guide your vehicle to the side of the road and make sure you’re safely in an emergency lane or pull-off area. Turn your hazards on so other drivers know that you’re going slowly.
- Once you’ve safely pulled over, leave the hazard lights on and make sure it’s completely safe before you exit the vehicle.
- Call for help as soon as you’re stranded. Whether it’s a local tow company or your own roadside assistance service, it’s important to get your stranded vehicle (and yourself) off the road as soon as you can.
If your car keeps turning off, don’t put it off any longer. For professional guidance or service for your vehicle, stop in or call CAR FIX Crossville in Crossville, TN today!
